Transition Years (Grades 5-12)

Investing in the Success of Young Children

Helios Education Foundation's greatest area of emphasis is in the Transition Years, which are defined as grades five through 12. These important years are often when students are faced with personal, social and academic pressures which can distract them from excelling in school. They are also critical years for preparing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college, career and life.

As a result, we are interested in increasing student knowledge in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM education) as well as fostering a college-going culture amongst all students, parents and educators. Ultimately, our work is intended to help more Arizona and Florida youth transition successfully between the various stages of education-elementary, middle school and high school-and go on to complete a postsecondary program.

Within the Transition Years, Helios Education Foundation is focused on:

• Increasing Curriculum Rigor and Relevance with an Emphasis on STEM Education
  We are working to improve middle and high school science and math curriculum, with an emphasis on grades 5-10, while increasing its relevance for students in achieving their personal and professional goals, meeting postsecondary education requirements and addressing 21st Century needs.
• Creating and Sustaining a Pipeline of Quality STEM Educators
  We strive to enhance the skills and expertise of educators who are currently teaching math and science while cultivating a pipeline of teachers specialized in the STEM content areas. We will seek opportunities to attract and retain talented professionals to teach in these areas, especially in under-resourced schools.
• Cultivating Strong Middle and High School Leadership
  We are working to attract, prepare and retain highly effective leadership within middle and high schools by enhancing their ability to increase student success and academic achievement as well as foster a postsecondary education supportive environment among families and students.
• Fostering Personal Growth, Character Development and College Readiness
  We strive to increase the success of middle and high school students through academically aligned programs and initiatives that also strengthen social development, foster personal growth and aid in character development. Helios seeks to create a college-going culture in order to increase college readiness and access to postsecondary opportunities and pathways for students.
• Improving Family and Community Engagement in Student Success
  We are working to actively engage families and communities in the success of our students by educating them about their role in challenging students, providing consistent encouragement and support, and helping them navigate the school system.

To learn more about our Transition Years Theory of Change, Click Here.